The Non-Controversial Oscars

The culture war over Hollywood hardware will have trouble exploding or even igniting after today's batch of nominees for the 2005 Oscars. Fahrenheit 9/11 garnered no nominations whatsoever and The Passion of the Christ was shut out of the principle categories as well, thought it does have a chance to win for its musical score, cinematography, or make-up. Supporters of the Passion can't be too incensed, as the movie did get some appreciation. Detractors, meanwhile, will not have to wake up in a cold sweat after dreaming that The Passion won Best Picture, Gibson Best Director, or James Cavaziel Best Actor. (Being a huge fan of the movie, I would have voted for all of these honors, though I haven't seen many of the other movies nominated.)

Obviously Michael Moore's tactical move--withdrawing his movie from documentary consideration to go for Best Picture--backfired. I have to admit I'm surprised he wasn't even nominated for Film Editing--where he certainly possesses masterful talent, however it is used. The positive of his Best Documentary withdrawal: he left the door open for Morgan Spurlock's "Super Size Me."